Earlier this week, I gave four reasons why the Rolling Stones are still the most important and influential rock band in the world. Here are my OTHER four reasons why I have spent thousands of hours defending them, and thousands of pounds watching them perform all over the world. PLUS, 10 unforgivable Downers...

'Paint It, Black' has been my favourite record since I was eleven. It's a passionate love affair which has consumed more of my time and energy than is mentally healthy but despite their lack of musical edge in recent years; despite small fortunes now charged for tickets and special remastered albums; even despite Mick accepting a knighthood; I figure they are worth it. Here's why.